Selecting A Home Remodeling Contractor

With today's home values soaring, a lot of homeowners are choosing to improve rather than move. Oftentimes the tax advantages of staying in your existing home are substantial and with a little planning you can turn your present home into your dream home. But that said, sometimes selecting a contractor to remodel your home can be not just one of the most important choices you will make as a homeowner, but one of the most daunting. And, remodeling your kitchen will likely be the biggest remodeling project you do in your home.Any home remodeling project can be time-consuming, stressful, and even downright scary. To avoid most of the complications, you should always do your homework when selecting your contractor--and with a little knowledge and preparation, you'll be on the right track and your project should go smoothly!

Products themselves, such as cabinetry and appliances, are only small pieces of the puzzle when remodeling your kitchen, bath or other rooms. You must consider other key items as well, such as countertops; backsplashes; electrical requirements (per South Florida building codes); plumbing; mechanical work (air conditioning ducts and ventilation); flooring; insulation; telephone and cable lines; structural changes like the addition or removal of drywall and/or raising ceilings; and the list can go on and on. A skillfull contractor will be able to coordinate all of these things as they are being installed in your home-and seriously minimize stress and potential problems.

Here are some pointers that will make your process of selecting a contractor just a bit easier:

•  Employ a contractor with an established business and/or showroom. Be sure to visit the establishment before making any decisions. If someone's working from the back of a truck, and you end up with issues during the project don't be surprised. The object here is to insure that things are done right, and someone with an established track record and a place to visit gives you considerable peace of mind.

•  Ask friends who have remodeled their homes, and whose homes you admire, if they were happy with their projects and if they would recommend their contractor.

•  Find out if the contractor is a member of any industry associations. Call or visit the web site of an industry association such as the National Kitchen and Bath Association at (800) 401-NKBA or www.nkba.com to get the names of reputable contractors in your area.

•  Always contact your state or local licensing agencies to ensure the contractor meets all licensing requirements. Ask the contractor for proof of liability and workmen's compensation insurance. Without these things you could be liable for any damage occurring to the building or another's unit (if you are in a condominium) and any injuries that may occur on premises.

•  Try to get at least three different estimates for different contractors, but be sure that they are bidding on the same scope and quality of work. Try to provide each contractor with a set of plans and a specification sheet so you know you are comparing "apples to apples."

•  Choose a company you feel comfortable with and one that is well matched for the scope and complexity of the project. Go with your gut, and with what they present to you in terms of their showroom and plans-you should feel that you trust them and that they are educating you throughout your remodeling process.

•  It is good to look at photos of finished projects, but better to actually ask for references and follow up on them. Call the references and don't be afraid to ask specific questions. Some references may even let you visit their home to see the finished project.

•  Be advised that building codes are established in most cities, and a permit is required whenever structural work is involved or when the basic living area of a home has been changed. You need a permit to remodel a kitchen or a bathroom, regardless of size. Usually there is also a plumbing permit, electrical permit, structural permit and sometimes a mechanical permit that is required. The costs to obtain these permits are minimal, but the risk you take in not getting them could be very high.

•  Getting everything in writing so there is no miscommunication. A well-written contract and proposal that is given with each estimate should include all details including the contractor's name, address, telephone number and license number; detail of quality, types of material, and scope of work to be done; a completion date of the work to be done; a payment schedule; and a warranty covering materials and workmanship for at least a year. Don't be afraid to ask questions and make sure you understand everything before you sign any contract!

•  Request a detailed set of drawings, consisting of a floor plan, as well as isometric and or elevation drawings. This will help you actually visualize what you are buying by way of a three-dimensional drawing.

•  Remember, if the price or timeline sounds too good to be true, it usually is.

Using these guidelines will help you to achieve your dream home without too much stress. Remember, remodeling is an interference in your home and takes time to be done right, so be prepared. Remember with projects like this, cheaper is not always better and most times it comes with heartache and massive aggravation.

But, selecting a good trustworthy contractor will make the entire process a positive one overall.